TNT Pilot 'Perception' Nears Series Pickup

Eric McCormack seems headed back to TNT’s primetime. Word is that TNT is closing in on a series order for the drama pilot Perception starring the Will & Grace alum. The project, from ABC Studios, centers on Dr. Geoffrey Pierce (McCormack), an eccentric, frequently erratic and brilliant university professor in neuropsychiatry who helps the FBI solve complex cases working with sexy, sharp-tongued and smart FBI agent (and his former student) Kate Rossi (Rachael Leigh Cook). Kenneth Biller and Mike Sussman co-wrote the pilot, which was directed by Alan Poul. Perception is one of four pilots ordered by TNT last fall along with Dallas, Bird Dog and an untitled project from Allan Loeb. It was the first one to cast its lead. McCormack previously starred in TNT’s ad-agency drama Trust Me. Meanwhile, TNT is close to renewing cop drama Southland for a fourth season.